@avefrank's testosterone injection video fact-checked

What does this TikTok actually show?

This video shows @avefrank, a trans man, self-administering what appears to be a testosterone injection. The 30-second clip includes a trigger warning for needles and uses hashtags related to trans masculinity and testosterone.

The creator doesn't make specific medical claims in the caption. Instead, they're documenting their hormone replacement therapy routine. This type of content is common in trans TikTok communities, where people share their transition experiences.

Without audio or additional context, we can only verify what's visually apparent. The injection technique and setting appear appropriate for subcutaneous testosterone administration.

Is self-injection of testosterone safe and effective?

For trans men with proper medical supervision, self-administered testosterone injections are both safe and standard practice. The Endocrine Society's 2017 guidelines recommend testosterone cypionate or enanthate every 1-2 weeks for transgender men.

A 2019 study by Auer et al. in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 89% of trans men achieved target testosterone levels with intramuscular injections. Self-injection reduces clinic visits and improves treatment adherence.

However, this requires proper training and medical oversight. Patients need education on injection technique, site rotation, and recognizing complications. Hormone levels must be monitored regularly to adjust dosing.

What are the real risks of testosterone therapy?

Testosterone therapy carries documented risks that require medical monitoring. The most serious concern is polycythemia, where red blood cell count increases dangerously. This affects 5-31% of testosterone users according to a 2016 review by Fernández-Balsells et al.

Other risks include acne, male pattern baldness, and potential cardiovascular effects. A 2019 study by Nota et al. following 2,517 trans men found increased risk of cardiovascular events, though absolute risk remained low at 2.4 per 1,000 person-years.

Sleep apnea can worsen with testosterone therapy. Liver function may be affected, particularly with oral formulations, though injectable testosterone has minimal hepatic impact.

Does this video promote unsafe practices?

Nothing in this video appears to promote unsafe practices. The creator includes appropriate trigger warnings and doesn't provide medical advice or dosing information to viewers.

The injection appears to follow proper technique based on what's visible. Many healthcare providers specifically train patients to self-administer testosterone injections at home, making this a routine medical practice rather than risky behavior.

If anything, showing normal medical care can reduce stigma. Trans men often face barriers to healthcare access, and seeing routine hormone therapy normalized may encourage proper medical engagement rather than unsafe alternatives.

What should people know about starting testosterone?

Testosterone therapy requires comprehensive medical evaluation before starting. This includes baseline labs for liver function, lipids, and complete blood count. Mental health assessment and fertility counseling are also recommended by major medical organizations.

Effects begin within weeks but continue developing for years. Voice changes typically start at 1-6 months and complete by 1-2 years. Facial hair growth peaks at 3-5 years according to the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care Version 8.

Regular monitoring is essential throughout treatment. Testosterone and hematocrit levels should be checked 3 months after starting, then every 6-12 months. This isn't a treatment you can manage alone, despite the ability to self-inject.